Sydney’s Discobolus Monument added to State Heritage Register

An iconic symbol of the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics, the Discobolus Monument, has been added to the State Heritage Register.

The Minns Labor Government is recognising, protecting, preserving and promoting the people, groups, places and events which have contributed to the state’s rich heritage. Heritage listings on the State Register tell the incredible history of NSW.

Created by artist Robert Owen, the Discobolus Monument Moveable Heritage Group comprises multiple elements, including a distinctive seven-metre-wide disc sculpture, a stone wall, cypress and olive trees, as well as marble plaques linked to the families that supported the initiative before its installation.

The elements were installed at Sydney Olympic Park ahead of the Olympics as a tribute to the Games’ Greek roots.

Made from glass and eight tonnes of stainless steel, the disc symbolises the original discus thrower, Castor, metaphorically hurling a discus from ancient Greece to Sydney’s Olympics. The disc also resembles a CD-ROM – a nod to technology and the culture of the era.

The grove of olive and cypress trees surrounds the disc as a living link between Sydney Olympic Park and the first Olympics and the goddess Artemis.

The work of art joins the Sydney Olympic Cauldron as another monument in Sydney Olympic Park on the State Heritage Register.

The listing requires the Discobolus Monument Moveable Heritage Group to be retained and maintained within Sydney Olympic Park.

The Greek Herald understands that any works that fall outside existing exemptions will require approval under the Heritage Act 1977.

If a future relocation proposal meets the activities, standards and conditions outlined in the site-specific exemptions, no additional approval under the Heritage Act would be necessary and the works may proceed, although other processes – such as local council approvals – may still apply.

The owner has also committed to working closely with stakeholders in the development of any future plans for the Group.

In related information, the time capsule installed in Stockroute Park is not included in the heritage listing, as inclusion on the State Heritage Register would prevent it from being opened. However, the owner has pledged to retain the time capsule and ensure it remains co-located with the Discobolus artwork.

Minister for Heritage, Penny Sharpe, said: “The 2000 Olympics was one of the great moments in Sydney’s history and 25 years later we are adding the Discobolus Monument and connected elements to the State Heritage Register.”

“This eye-catching piece is more than art. It symbolises a connection to the Games and is a tribute to our Greek community,” Minister Sharpe added.

“The Olympic Games are one of Greece’s greatest gifts to the world, and this monument reflects the pride Sydney’s Greek community takes in that legacy.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to funding this sculpture and the elements around it more than 25 years ago. You will be forever cherished on the State Heritage Register.”

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis, said: “It’s wonderful to add another item from the Parramatta electorate to the State Heritage Register. Parramatta is such a vibrant multicultural community and those with Greek heritage and sports enthusiasts alike will be thrilled to know this unique item will be looked after as a place of high significance right across the state.”

For information about State Heritage Listings, visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/heritage/search-heritage-databases/state-heritage-inventory